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Ox explains biggest reason for joining Liverpool

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain wanted to join Liverpool because of “how close he seems to bond with the players”.

Oxlade-Chamberlain moved to Anfield on transfer deadline day in a move worth an initial £35million.

The England international had grown disillusioned at Arsenal, and his relationship with manager Arsene Wenger had deteriorated towards the end of his six-year stint with the club.

He says that Klopp’s relationship with his players tempted him to move to Merseyside.

“Even as a neutral watching him last season, you [could see] he’s a really interesting character and someone that seems very inspiring for people that aren’t even involved in the club,” Oxlade-Chamberlain told the Liverpool website.

“Watching him, his passion and how much he cares about the game.

“The thing that stood out for me was his relationship with the players, how close he seems to bond with the players on and off the field.

“That’s massive and it’s definitely a big plus when you’re looking to progress, having that relationship with the manager; that definitely helps.

“And then obviously the way his teams play, that’s definitely inspirational for me and was one of the instrumental – if not the main reason – that I felt this place was definitely the place for me.

“He’s definitely a manager that’s very animated on the side and you sort of feel like you get to know him without even knowing him when you listen to him in his press conferences – and then the insights I’ve had from the boys on him.

“First of all, what he’s achieved, you respect that straight away and how much he knows about the game, and then all his extra attributes – his relationships with the players and how he pushes you, encourages you and what he demands from you – that’s like a bonus. That’s what makes him special in my eyes.”